Central Oregon Economic Indicators August 2026

by Clare McGrady, Workforce Analyst/Economist, Oregon Employment Department

July in View:

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the United States was 4.1% in July 2026. In Oregon, the unemployment rate remained at 5.2% which marks the seventh consecutive month at this rate.

In Deschutes County, the over-the-year seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell slightly to 4.8%. Deschutes County is the only county in Central Oregon with an unemployment rate lower than Oregon’s rate. In Crook County, the unemployment rate was 5.8% in July 2025 and 6.0% in July 2026, but there was no over-the-month change. In Jefferson County, the unemployment rate was 5.9% in July 2025 and 5.6% in July 2026; there was no over-the-month change.

Articles of Interest

“Employment Seasonality in Oregon’s Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation Sector” by Nelson Gomes, Oregon Employment Department

“Strong Demand Projected for Mental Health Professionals in Oregon” by Luke Coury, Oregon Employment Department

“Employment and Wages in Oregon Nonprofits” by Shawn Barrick, Oregon Employment Department